A nurse is providing care to a group of postpartum clients. Which client comment should prompt further investigation?

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11ecbb05_cc28_3452_b433_87e625fa52e1_MD0009_00 Perinatal mood disorders may occur at any time during pregnancy but are often precipitated in the postpartum period by the sudden drop in estrogen and progesterone levels after birth. Clients with postpartum depression may feel intense and persistent irritability, anxiety, anger, guilt, and sadness. Such feelings may affect the ability to care for the newborn or themselves. A client showing irritability and disinterest in caring for the newborn should be further assessed for postpartum depression and offered a referral for follow-up care. (Option A) Maternal fatigue or decreased energy is common after birth and while caring for a newborn. The nurse can reassure the client that sleeping when the newborn sleeps is a good strategy as normal newborn sleep and feeding habits may require the client's attention frequently day and night. (Options B and D) Postpartum blues ("baby blues") is a common, milder form of depression characterized by emotional lability, sadness, anxiety, and difficulty sleeping. However, the client's ability to function properly is not affected, and symptoms subside within 2 weeks without treatment. If symptoms persist after 2 weeks, further assessment may be necessary. Educational objective: Perinatal mood disorders may occur at any time during pregnancy but are more common in the immediate postpartum period. Clients with postpartum depression may feel intense and persistent anxiety, anger, guilt, and sadness. A client showing irritability and disinterest in caring for the newborn should be assessed for postpartum depression and offered a referral for follow-up care.

A Nurse Is Providing Care to a Group of Postpartum